Boat Transactions

New Boat Registration and Titling Rules

As of January 2019, the State of Alaska requires boat owners to prove ownership when registering their boats. A tiered system now determines whether a boat owner qualifies for a certificate of title or will receive a “No Title Issued (NTI)” designation.

If ownership cannot be verified, a title cannot be issued. Instead, the boat registration will be marked “No Title Issued (NTI).” If after three years the registration remains uncontested and no undisclosed security interests exist, a certificate of title may be issued.

Boat Registration Requirements

Alaska Statute 05.25.055 requires most boats to be registered unless specifically exempt. The following boats must be registered:

• Previously documented boats
• Barges
• Sport fishing guide boats (regardless of length)
• Tenders

Boats that are exempt from registration include non-boats, non-powered boats, boats registered elsewhere, government-owned boats, and foreign-documented boats.

Boat Title Requirements

Alaska Statute 05.25.056 requires a certificate of title or "No Title Issued (NTI)” registration for:

• Any undocumented boat subject to registration that is more than 24 feet in length
• Any boat previously registered with the U.S. Coast Guard that is subject to registration

For undocumented boats under 24 feet, titling is optional.

Due to these requirements, online renewal is not available for boats over 24 feet. Boat owners must apply for a title in person at UMV. Like motor vehicles, boat owners must disclose lien and security interest details or show proof that any lien has been satisfied before receiving a title.

Documents Required for Boat Title and Registration

To Prove Boat Ownership and Obtain a Title & Registration

Bring one of the following:

• Original Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO)
• Original Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO)
• Boat title and registration from the previous state of ownership
• Completed CG-1261 Builder’s Certification

To Register a Boat or Begin the 3-Year Waiting Period for a Title

Bring one of the following:

• Any ownership document listed above
• A copy of the current Certificate of Documentation issued by the U.S. Coast Guard
• The boat registration from the previous state of ownership if the title is unavailable because:
  • The state does not issue boat titles
  • The boat has an active lien
  • The previous state title or MCO/MSO is lost or destroyed
• A bill of sale from a boat dealer or the previous owner
• An affidavit of ownership (included in the boat registration application)